Understanding the Process and Factors of Sperm Formation

YOGYAKARTA - The final result of spermatogenesis that occurs in the testis is sperm that is ready to fertilize the egg cell. Let's see how the process of sperm formation in the male body in the article below.

The term spermatogenesis is a combination of two words, namely spermato which means seed and genesis which means the process of forming something. Thus, spermatogenesis can be interpreted as the process of forming seeds, in this case is sperm.

See the Spermatogenic Process in the Male Body

Compiled from various sources, the process of sperm formation (spermatogenesis) in the male body can be explained in the following stages:

Spermatogonium Formation

The process begins with spermatogonium, which is the sperm stem cell that divides through mitosis. This division produces two primary spermatocytes with the same number of chromosomes as the original cell.

Secondary Spermatocyte Formation

The primary spermatocyte then undergoes the first meiotic division. This stage produces two secondary spermatocytes that are of similar size and carry half the number of chromosomes of the previous parent cell.

Spermatid Formation

Furthermore, secondary spermatocytes undergo a second meiosis. This process produces four spermatids that are shaped and of the same size. Spermatids are the final stage before they turn into mature sperm cells.

Changes to Spermatozoa

Spermatids transform into spermatozoa, i.e. mature sperm cells that are ready to carry out reproductive functions.

Maturation in the Epididymus

Spermatozoa move into the epididymis, a storage duct connected to the testis. This is where sperm undergo final maturation and are ready to be released with semen during ejaculation.

Final Results of Spermatogenesis Occurring in the Testis

From the explanation above it can be seen that the final result of spermatogenesis that occurs in the testis is mature sperm.

During the process of spermatogenesis, more than 300 million spermatozoa are produced every day. However, only about 100 million cells manage to mature perfectly and reach the final formation stage.

Quoting the National Insitutes Of Health (NIH) website, the process of forming spermatozoa into mature sperm cells that are ready to fertilize the egg takes about 2.5 months.

This is different from women whose egg cell production stops at menopause, spermatogenesis is a lifelong process, unless you have certain medical conditions.

Factors Affecting Spermatogenesis

Based on research published in Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology (2016), there are several conditions that can affect the process of sperm formation or spermatogenesis. Here's the explanation.

Environment

Exposure to certain chemicals - such as lead - has long been thought to impact the process of spermatogenesis.

In vitro animal studies indicate that the chemical may adversely affect the male reproductive system.

Although evidence in humans still needs to be strengthened, a wise step that can be taken is to reduce contact with harmful chemicals in daily activities.

Genetics

Genetic abnormalities are estimated to account for about 15–30 percent of cases of male infertility.

Although infertility is not directly inherited, a number of genetic conditions can interfere with fertility.

One example is Klinefelter syndrome, a disorder that occurs due to an extra X chromosome. In men, this condition can lower reproductive ability.

Obesity

Not many people realize that obesity can increase the risk of hyperestrogenism, which is a condition when the body produces excess amounts of the hormone estrogen. This condition can interfere with sperm formation.

High estrogen levels can lower testosterone production, even though this hormone is very important in the process of spermatogenesis.

Diabetes

Various health disorders, including diabetes, have been linked to a decrease in the quality and quantity of sperm.

That's why men with diabetes sometimes face difficulties in producing healthy sperm. Lifestyle changes and proper treatment can help improve sperm quality.

This is information about the final result of spermatogenesis that occurs in the testis. Get updates on other featured news only at VOI.ID.

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